Mrs. Knepper's Chemistry Page
This is an accelerated, comprehensive course in Chemistry designed for students who are planning on attending a 4-year college, school of nursing, and/or planning to major in a science-based area. Class material will focus on an in-depth study of topics that are covered in Chemistry I with an emphasis on the mathematical problem solving approach to principles. A usable knowledge of Algebra I and II are assumed, and a calculator is essential. The laboratory part of the course includes documentation of experiments using laboratory reports. Chemical topics include: matter, change, and energy; conversion and measurement; the periodic table; atomic structure and quantum mechanics; chemical formulas and interpretation of formulas; chemical equations and reactions; the mole and chemical measurements; stoichiometry; solution chemistry; and gas laws. Laboratory experiments and lab reports, as well as lecture and demonstrations are basic to this course.
Topics to be covered:
- Matter, change, and measurement
- The Periodic Table
- Atomic structure
- Chemical nomenclature
- Chemical measurements (The Mole)
- Interpretation of chemical formulas
- Chemical equations
- Stoichiometry
- Solution Chemistry
- Quantum mechanics
- Gas laws
- Chemical reactions
Resources
- Chemistry, Wilbraham, Staley, Simpson, Matta, 2012
- Chemistry Laboratory Manual, Wilbraham, Staley, Simpson, Matta, 2012.
- Other selected laboratory investigations
- Videotapes
- Laboratory equipment
- Worksheets
- Computer software
Grading
Students will be graded on the basis of:
- Unit Exams - always announced and based on present class material
- Laboratory performance- based on lab reports, accuracy of results, adherence to laboratory rules
- Quizzes- can be announced or unannounced on current classroom or laboratory material
- Homework- When homework is checked, I check assignments on the due date. If you are absent for an assignment, it is your responsibility to make it up and show it to me, otherwise the grade is a zero. All assignments should be made up by the day after you return from an absence
- Special Projects- can be extra credit or required
- Final Laboratory Practical- given at the end of the semester and included with the final exam grade
- Final Exam- cumulative, multiple choice final based on all material covered
The final marking period grade will be determined by the following formula:
Sum of points from all of the above criteria / Total possible points x 100 = final %
Each of the three marking period grades counts two-sevenths and the final exam counts one-seventh toward your final grade. You must pass two of the four grading periods to pass the year.
Upcoming homework assignments, quizzes, and exams will be posted on the board.
If you are absent, it is your responsibility to make up the assignment or to get the notes fromanother student. If you miss a lab, quiz, or exam, you must make it up as soon as possible during flex period. Unexcused absences or tardies will result in a zero for all work missed. You must present an excuse form to me upon return from an absence.
Cheating on an exam, quiz, or laboratory will result in a grade of zero on the assignment and disciplinary action.
If you are tardy for class, you must present a pass to explain your tardiness.
Grades are updated on a regular basis on PowerSchool. Please see Mrs. Knepper if you have any questions regarding your grade.
Materials Needed
- Every student is expected to keep a notebook. A three-ring binder or a notebook with pockets would be best.
- You will need a scientific calculator that has an exponent function.
